Catholic Priest Condemns MPs’ Sh100m Handshake

By:Weswa Ronnie 

Rev. Father Alex Ockech of St. Austin Mbale Catholic Church has condemned the recent award of Sh100m to each Member of Parliament.

While Speaking today Sunday during Easter Day Mass at St. Anthony Mooni Catholic Church in Mbale City, Father Ockech criticized the allocation of taxpayer funds to MPs, citing pressing national issues such as poor roads, inadequate healthcare facilities, and underfunded schools.

Father Ockech urged that the funds allocated to MPs be redirected towards addressing these pressing issues.

His sentiments were echoed by some church members, including Sam Kitongo and Sarah Khatayi, who called on their area MPs to utilize the funds for community development and infrastructure improvement.

Rita Namuwenge, National Emyooga Coordinator also doubling as Mbale City Woman MP aspirant for 2026, used the occasion to encourage Christians and Ugandans to participate in government programs like Emyooga and PDM to boost household incomes.

She also warned against corruption, urging citizens to report district leaders who demand bribes for access to these programs, which are meant to be free.